Bo-Karoo Opleiding (BKO) in Orania, South Africa, has partnered with Peritum Agri to offer two accredited national diplomas in agriculture. The diplomas in animal production and plant production are level 5 qualifications accredited by AgriSETA. The two-year programs will be offered full-time on BKO's campus in Orania, with a strong practical component on the institution's 22-hectare Leer-My-Hoe trial farm.
The partnership brings together Peritum's curriculum and BKO's practical, community-based training model. According to Marcel Badenhorst-Nieuwoudt, head of BKO's agricultural department, this partnership is an important step forward for practical agricultural training. The partnership will not only create opportunities for individual students but also invest in the long-term food security, sustainability, and economic growth of the agricultural sector.
Students will gain exposure to various aspects of agriculture, including climate conditions, resource management, and modern farming technology. They will also compile a work portfolio over the two years to demonstrate their knowledge and practical skills. The programs are designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to enter the agricultural sector.
Belinda Louw, director of Peritum Agri, says the institution focuses on preparing young agricultural leaders for changes in the industry. She notes that the partnership with BKO will enable Peritum to expand its reach and train young people for the agricultural sector. The partnership coincides with Peritum Agri's 25th anniversary.
The admission requirements for the two diplomas include a matric certificate or equivalent qualification, as well as at least 40% for mathematics, technical mathematics, or mathematical literacy. No prior agricultural subjects are required. BKO was established in 2019 with five students and currently has over 250 students.
BKO has four hostels, two day houses, 30 staff members, the Leer-My-Hoe trial farm, and Techika, its technical campus. The expansion of the trial farm and BKO's agricultural offerings is part of the institution's Snelrat 800 plan, which aims to create a study home for over 800 students by 2028.
The new partnership is expected to enhance agricultural training in South Africa. With the country's agricultural sector facing various challenges, the partnership between BKO and Peritum Agri is seen as a positive development. The two institutions aim to provide students with the skills and knowledge needed to contribute to the sector's growth and sustainability.
Key points
- BKO partners with Peritum Agri to offer two accredited national diplomas in agriculture
- The partnership aims to provide students with practical skills and knowledge needed to enter the agricultural sector
- The programs are designed to equip students with skills needed to contribute to food security, sustainability, and economic growth in the agricultural sector
